Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
House-trained,
Story
Meet Ricky – The Resilient Goofball Who Still Chooses Love
Ricky has every reason to be cautious about the world, but somehow, he still wakes up every morning ready to love it.
This affectionate, goofy boy has been through an incredibly difficult experience, yet his gentle spirit remains intact. He's sweet, loyal, adventurous, and happiest when he's spending time with his people. He may be shy when you first meet him, but once Ricky feels comfortable, his silly personality and enormous heart quickly take over.
His foster says the thing that makes Ricky most special is simple: his resilience.
Ricky Loves:
-Walks
-Hiking
--Car rides
Running
-Fetch
-Sniffing and exploring
-Playing with toys
-Chewing bones
-Cuddling
-Napping
-Going to stores
-Outdoor patios
-Sunbathing
-Quiet relaxation
-Spending time with his people
Ricky's Favorite Thing:
Starting the day with his person.
Every morning, Ricky walks to the edge of his foster's bed and starts licking their face. It's his very effective way of announcing that sleeping time is officially over and he's ready to get up and enjoy another day.
Considering everything Ricky has been through, that enthusiasm for life makes the ritual even sweeter.
Adventurer by Day, Couch Potato by Night
Ricky has a wonderful balance of energy.
He's happy joining his family for a hike, car ride, shopping trip, or afternoon of exploring, but he doesn't need to be entertained every minute of the day. Once the adventure is over, he's perfectly content chewing a bone, sunbathing, taking a nap, or settling in beside his people.
He's confident and comfortable on outings and continues improving as he's exposed to new experiences.
A Loyal Heart
Ricky may be a little shy when he first meets someone, but he warms up quickly. Once you're part of his circle, he's incredibly affectionate and devoted.
He has an independent streak, but he's also very much a Velcro dog. He likes knowing where his people are and being included in their lives.
He's gentle, easygoing, occasionally stubborn, and just goofy enough to keep everyone laughing.
A Few Things to Know:
-House trained
-Knows "Sit," "Stay," "Come," and "Leave It"
-Loves children
-Medium energy
-Enjoys outings
-Comfortable riding in the car
-Cats are unknown but may be a possibility based on his temperament
-Does best with dogs who are calm and enjoy peacefully coexisting rather than dogs looking for an active playmate
-Pulls on leash and would benefit from continued leash work
-Can occasionally be stubborn
-Has some separation anxiety tendencies
-Currently has crate anxiety
-His foster is actively working on helping him become more comfortable in the crate
-He may protest initially when crated but can eventually settle for periods of time
-Will benefit from continued patience, structure, and consistency in his new home
Ricky's Story
Ricky came to rescue after living in a camper with four other German Shepherds.
While living there, Ricky was seriously attacked by one of his siblings. His injuries included significant trauma to his face and the loss of an ear.
What happened to Ricky is part of his story, but it isn't who he is.
Despite everything he experienced, Ricky has remained remarkably brave, affectionate, and forgiving. He continues to trust people, enjoy life, seek affection, and approach each new day with enthusiasm.
His missing ear doesn't make him any less handsome. If anything, it's simply a visible reminder of just how much this incredible dog has overcome.
Great Activities for Ricky:
-Hiking
-Neighborhood walks
-Car rides
-Running errands
-Exploring new places
-Fetch
-Sniffing adventures
-Outdoor patios
-Sunbathing
-Chewing bones
-Relaxing at home
-Couch time with his family
Best Match:
-Active or outdoorsy household
-Family-friendly home
-Someone looking for a loyal companion
-A home with a calm, respectful resident dog or as an only dog
-Adopters willing to continue working patiently on his crate anxiety
-Someone who wants a dog who can enjoy an adventure and then happily become a couch potato
Three Words That Describe Ricky Best:
❤️ Loyal
❤️ Affectionate
❤️ Goofy
Foster Location:
Holmen, WI
Meet & Greet Availability:
Ricky's foster is willing to travel anywhere to meet an approved adopter for the right home.
Ricky has already experienced more than any dog should have to, yet he hasn't allowed those experiences to take away his joy.
He still loves.
He still trusts.
He still wakes up every morning, kisses his foster awake, and acts like there's an entire world waiting for him to enjoy.
Now Ricky just needs the family who will make sure the rest of his story is filled with exactly that.
If you're looking for a resilient, affectionate best friend with a goofy personality, an adventurous spirit, and one very special ear, Ricky may be waiting for you.
Ready to meet Ricky? Visit www.tailsofhopewi.org to submit an application.
Please note: Donations made through the SPONSOR ME tab on PetFinder do not go to Tails of Hope-WI and do not benefit the rescue. If you would like to support Ricky or Tails of Hope-WI, please donate directly through our website or official fundraising channels.
